Retail sales in Michigan in January were down 10% from January of last year.
January sales were 48 on the 100 point retail index, but Andrea Bitely of the Michigan Retailers Association says 63% of retailers are optimistic for the next three months.
“We are hopeful and retailers are hopeful and anticipating that they are going to be out spending again ahead of spring and summer vacations and trips with purchases in the shoe and clothing departments of retail stores as well as getting into outdoor planting,” Bitely said.
20% of retailers expect their sales to decline in the next few months. 17% expect no change.
